“I wish you were going with us,” I mumbled, hearing heavy footsteps landing on the stairs.

Mama grinned over the edge of the map. “Me too. I bet those fair workers are from all over the country, if not the world.” Her eyes went dreamy again. “Be sure to ask some of them where they are from.” That was another one of her little quirks. At a chance encounter with someone new, her first question was always wanting to know where the person was from.

“Okay . . .” I brushed my hair out of my face and sighed. “You sure I need to tend to the twins tonight?”

“Yes. Your daddy needs some Boston time. That always cheers him up. Will you please do it for me?”

I wanted to ask what in the world did Pa have to be down about. It was Mama who deserved some fun time. But I kept that to myself, just like the weird name choices, and mumbled, “Yes, ma’am.” The heavy steps turned into a fast-paced bumping sound, sending whoever was on the stairs bouncing down on his backside. “Ugh. I better go help Pa.” Before I made a step away, Mama gathered my hand in hers.

“Sweetie, I know you don’t like talking about certain things, but you still need to be prepared. I’ve stocked up on supplies. They’re in the top of the linen closet.”

I knew she was just looking out for me, so I chose to forgo my grumbling and be agreeable for a change. “Thank you.” I kissed her cheek and made my way to the door, pausing there for a moment to give her one last tease. “You need to promise that these two babies are the last two!”

She rubbed her belly and giggled. “I’m making no such promise.” She stuck her tongue out.

I stuck mine out too before dashing down the stairs to help herd the wild animals. Ages ranged from fourteen to seven. With one mentally challenged and another physically challenged, I had my hands full. Phoenix sat in the front of the truck with Pa and the twins, while Boss and I climbed in the back. It was a warm fall night and even though Boss liked to babble about nonsense, it was much more peaceful than sitting in the cab.

As Pa pulled into the fairgrounds, melodious music from the carousel filled the air as thickly sweet as the aroma of cotton candy and caramel apples. The wind carried over to us, along with squeals of delight from the roller coaster. Each plunge could be distinguished by the roar from the riders, wave after wave confirming that thing had one too many dips for my likings.